DiVERGE Program

The Diversity Visitation Event for Research and Graduate Education (DiVERGE) is a program held annually on the Jupiter, Florida campus of UF Scripps Biomedical Research. Geared toward undergraduate students interested in biomedical research careers, the program is designed to give participants an in-depth preview of Scripps Research's and UF Scripps’ Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF) programs and Scripps Research’s top-10-ranked doctoral program in the chemical and biological sciences.

More broadly, DiVERGE provides participants with useful tips on preparing a successful graduate school application, student and faculty perspectives on how to succeed in graduate school, and an understanding of the wide array of career paths available to STEM doctoral degree holders.

Complete dates, details and the online application can be found by visiting the UF Scripps DiVERGE webpage. The most recent event was held from January 6-8, 2022.

While open to all students interested in biomedical research, the DiVERGE Program is especially geared toward students from underrepresented minority groups or disadvantaged backgrounds, including individuals from low-income families or first-generation science students. Special consideration also will be given to students enrolled in Florida universities and colleges.

Eligibility is limited to undergraduate students currently enrolled at a college or university in the U.S. who are currently in their sophomore, junior or senior year.

Students who are selected for DiVERGE may attend special workshops and talks led by UF Scripps and Scripps Research faculty, meet with current graduate students, tour state-of-the-art research laboratories or attend scientific seminars. Travel to the Jupiter campus, as well as all food, lodging and other travel expenses will be paid by Scripps Research for the selected students. (Since 2021, DiVERGE has been held virtually, and will likely be virtual again in 2023.)

Complete dates, details and the online application can be found by visiting the UF Scripps DiVERGE webpage.

 Students participating in the DiVERGE program will learn about:
  • The history and background of Scripps Research and UF Scripps Biomedical Research
  • Ongoing research projects at Scripps Research and UF Scripps
  • Internships and the graduate program, including how to apply
  • Crafting successful graduate school and internship applications
  • Writing an effective personal and research statement
  • Constructing and giving a compelling self-introduction
  • Science identity and the culture of science

To apply for DiVERGE, an online application must be submitted and supporting materials uploaded by the deadline.

Supporting materials include:

  1. A personal statement describing your purpose in applying to the DiVERGE program. Topics you may wish to address include, but are not limited to:
    • Why are you interested in this program?
    • What are your goals for this experience?
    • What career paths are you considering?
    • What types of research being conducted at Scripps Research or UF Scripps particularly interest you and why?
  2. Your unofficial academic transcript;
  3. Your current resume or CV; and
  4. One letter of recommendation.
     

Complete details and the online application can be found by visiting the UF Scripps DiVERGE webpage.